Ranitidine is a popular and effective treatment for stomach ulcers, acid reflux, and indigestion. It is an H2-receptor blocker – it provides relief from these symptoms by reducing the production of acid in the stomach. Ranitidine takes full effect within two to three hours of a dose.
Stomach acid plays a vital role in the digestive process. It helps to break down food it reaches the intestines. When there is an excess amount of acid, ulcers can form in the stomach. Gastric acid is released by H2 receptor cells along the walls of the stomach. Ranitidine blocks the action of histamine with these receptor cells, which suppresses the production of excess acid.
 
The oesophageal sphincter is made up of a group of muscles that act as a one-way barrier between the oesophagus and the stomach. This valve allows food to pass down into the stomach, whilst not allowing stomach acid or other substances to escape upwards. This sphincter can become weakened under pressure, which allows small quantities of acid to escape the stomach and enter the oesophagus. This is known as acid reflux. Heartburn is an associated symptom of acid reflux. The painful burning sensation of heartburn is the result of stomach acid irritating the soft tissues of the oesophagus. Heartburn isn’t related to the heart itself, rather the condition gets its name because the pain is felt in the chest area.